Celebrating Faithfulness: Building Relationships and Community
Summary
In today's gathering, we celebrated the 128th anniversary of Greater Centennial, a testament to God's enduring faithfulness and the rich history of our congregation. We reflected on the journey from our humble beginnings in Anna Green's living room to becoming a beacon of light in our community. This milestone is not just a celebration of our past but a call to continue shining our light for the next 128 years and beyond. We were honored to have our presiding bishop, Right Reverend George D. Crenshaw, and Reverend Perry Oliver, who delivered a powerful message about the importance of building relationships, both with each other and with God.
Reverend Oliver reminded us of the tragic story of a woman who passed away unnoticed at her workplace, highlighting the critical need for genuine connections in our lives. He challenged us to evaluate our relationships and ensure that we are not only connected with others but, most importantly, with God. This connection with God is foundational, as it offers us salvation and a relationship that sustains us through life's trials. The invitation was extended to those who wish to begin or renew their relationship with Christ, emphasizing that no matter our past, Jesus loves us and offers redemption.
We also took time to acknowledge the contributions of the Omega Psi Phi fraternity and their commitment to community service. As we look forward to upcoming events, such as our Thanksgiving meal distribution and International Survivors of Suicide and Loss Day, we are reminded of our mission to serve and uplift those around us. Our community initiatives, like providing meals and collecting coats, reflect our commitment to helping others with dignity and respect.
As we continue to worship and serve, let us remember that our strength and blessings come from God. We are called to be a light in the world, sharing His love and grace with everyone we encounter. May we remain steadfast in our faith, knowing that God is with us every step of the way.
Key Takeaways:
1. The Importance of Relationships: Building meaningful relationships is crucial, not only with others but with God. Our connection with God is the foundation that sustains us through life's challenges. Without it, we are spiritually vulnerable. [01:40:01]
2. God's Unconditional Love: Regardless of our past, Jesus loves us and offers redemption. By confessing and believing in Him, we are saved. This assurance of salvation is a cornerstone of our faith. [01:41:05]
3. Community and Service: Our church's history and ongoing community service reflect our commitment to being a beacon of light. We are called to serve others with dignity, ensuring that our actions reflect God's love. [01:58:09]
4. Faithfulness Through Trials: God is with us in both our best and worst days. His presence provides comfort and strength, reminding us that we are never alone in our struggles. [01:44:41]
5. A Call to Shine: As we celebrate our church's anniversary, we are reminded to let our light shine in the world. Our actions should point others to Jesus, bringing glory to God and hope to those around us. [01:45:16]
Youtube Chapters:
[00:00] - Welcome
[25:29] - Invocation and Hymn
[49:14] - Angels Watching Over Us
[55:49] - Introduction of Reverend Perry Oliver
[59:17] - Building Relationships
[01:39:23] - The Wells Fargo Story
[01:40:01] - Importance of Connection
[01:41:05] - Salvation Invitation
[01:42:13] - Altar Call
[01:43:23] - God's Presence in Trials
[01:44:41] - Prayer for Needs
[01:45:16] - Thanksgiving and Community Service
[01:51:48] - Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Recognition
[01:56:44] - Prayer and Announcements
[02:01:55] - Offering and Giving
[02:08:37] - Final Remarks and Benediction
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. Romans 10:9 - "If you declare with your mouth, 'Jesus is Lord,' and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved."
2. Matthew 5:14-16 - "You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead, they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven."
3. Hebrews 10:24-25 - "And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching."
#### Observation Questions
1. What was the significance of the 128th anniversary of Greater Centennial as mentioned in the sermon? [01:48:08]
2. How did Reverend Oliver illustrate the importance of building relationships through the story of the woman at Wells Fargo? [01:39:23]
3. What role does the Omega Psi Phi fraternity play in the community, as highlighted in the sermon? [01:51:48]
4. How does the sermon describe the relationship between God's faithfulness and the church's mission to serve the community? [01:58:09]
#### Interpretation Questions
1. How does Romans 10:9 relate to the sermon’s emphasis on the importance of a personal relationship with God? [01:41:05]
2. In what ways does the sermon suggest that the church can be a "light in the world," as described in Matthew 5:14-16? [01:45:16]
3. How does the story of the woman at Wells Fargo serve as a cautionary tale about the dangers of lacking meaningful relationships? [01:40:01]
4. What does the sermon imply about the role of community service in reflecting God's love, as seen in Hebrews 10:24-25? [01:58:09]
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on your current relationships. Are there any that need strengthening or mending? How can you take a step towards improving them this week? [01:40:01]
2. Consider your personal relationship with God. What is one specific action you can take this week to deepen that connection? [01:41:05]
3. How can you let your light shine in your community or workplace this week, as encouraged by the sermon? [01:45:16]
4. Identify a community service opportunity you can participate in this month. How can you involve others in this effort to reflect God's love? [01:58:09]
5. Think about a time when you felt God's presence during a trial. How can that experience encourage you or someone else facing a challenge now? [01:44:41]
6. What steps can you take to ensure that your actions and words point others to Jesus, as the sermon suggests? [01:45:16]
7. How can you support someone in your community who may feel unnoticed or disconnected, similar to the woman in the Wells Fargo story? [01:39:23]
Devotional
Day 1: Building Genuine Connections
In a world where superficial interactions are common, the importance of building genuine relationships cannot be overstated. These connections are not just about social interactions but are deeply rooted in our spiritual well-being. A tragic story was shared about a woman who passed away unnoticed at her workplace, serving as a stark reminder of the need for meaningful relationships. It is crucial to evaluate our connections with others and, most importantly, with God. Our relationship with God is foundational, offering us strength and guidance through life's challenges. Without this divine connection, we are spiritually vulnerable and may find ourselves isolated in times of need. [01:40:01]
Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 (ESV): "Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil. For if they fall, one will lift up his fellow. But woe to him who is alone when he falls and has not another to lift him up!"
Reflection: Think of a relationship in your life that needs strengthening. How can you take a step today to deepen that connection, both with the person and with God?
Day 2: Embracing God's Unconditional Love
God's love for us is unconditional, offering redemption regardless of our past. This assurance of salvation is a cornerstone of faith, reminding us that by confessing and believing in Jesus, we are saved. The invitation to begin or renew a relationship with Christ is always open, emphasizing that no matter where we have been, Jesus loves us and offers a path to redemption. This love is not just a concept but a transformative force that can change our lives and bring us closer to God. [01:41:05]
Isaiah 1:18 (ESV): "Come now, let us reason together, says the Lord: though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red like crimson, they shall become like wool."
Reflection: Reflect on a past mistake or regret. How can you embrace God's forgiveness and allow His love to transform your heart today?
Day 3: Serving with Dignity and Respect
The church's history and ongoing community service are a testament to its commitment to being a beacon of light. Serving others with dignity and respect is a reflection of God's love, and it is essential to ensure that our actions align with this mission. As the church engages in initiatives like meal distribution and coat collection, it is a reminder of the call to uplift those around us. This service is not just about meeting physical needs but also about sharing God's grace and love with everyone we encounter. [01:58:09]
Matthew 25:35-36 (ESV): "For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you clothed me, I was sick and you visited me, I was in prison and you came to me."
Reflection: Identify a way you can serve someone in your community this week. How can you ensure that your service reflects God's love and dignity?
Day 4: Finding Strength in God's Presence
Life's trials can be overwhelming, but God's presence provides comfort and strength. Knowing that God is with us in both our best and worst days is a source of hope and reassurance. This divine presence reminds us that we are never alone in our struggles, and it is through faith that we find the courage to face challenges. Embracing God's faithfulness allows us to navigate life's ups and downs with confidence, knowing that He is always by our side. [01:44:41]
Psalm 46:1-2 (ESV): "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear though the earth gives way, though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea."
Reflection: Think of a current challenge you are facing. How can you invite God's presence into this situation and find strength in His faithfulness?
Day 5: Shining Your Light in the World
As the church celebrates its anniversary, it is a call to let our light shine in the world. Our actions should point others to Jesus, bringing glory to God and hope to those around us. This call to shine is not just about personal growth but about impacting the world positively. By sharing God's love and grace, we can inspire others and create a ripple effect of kindness and compassion. It is through our faith and actions that we can be a beacon of hope in a world that desperately needs it. [01:45:16]
Matthew 5:14-16 (ESV): "You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven."
Reflection: Consider one way you can let your light shine this week. How can your actions point others to Jesus and bring hope to those around you?
Quotes
"Are you building relationships that somebody every once in a while would just check on you? Are you building relationships that you will check on others? Are you building relationships to make sure that you are connected with people? But more importantly, are you building a relationship? Where you're connected with God?" [01:40:06] (24 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
"The Bible says that if you would confess with your mouth and believe in your heart that God has raised him from the dead, you shall be saved. Here's the good news. Preacher said it doesn't make a difference what you've done, where you've been, who you've done it with. Jesus loves you." [01:40:48] (18 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
"You today can come and give your life to Christ. Is there one that will meet me at this altar and say, Pastor, for the first time, I want to give my life to Christ. I want to give my life to the one who I know. I want to give my life to the one who I know will keep me in relationship." [01:41:16] (16 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
"We're not a perfect church, but we'll love you through whatever you go through. We'll be there and walk you through the storms and trials of life, the good days as well as the bad days. Is there one that fits any of those three categories?" [01:42:00] (13 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
"Through our trials, through our tribulations, through our heartaches, through our disappointments, through our pain, God, you've been right by our side. On our best day, you've been there. On our worst day, you've been there. Matter of fact, God, thank you for being there, because our worst day would have been worse if you hadn't been there." [01:44:19] (22 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
"Thank you for touching us and blessing us. Thank you for just watching over us both day and night. Thank you, God, for allowing us to have relationship with you. So, Father, we need you this morning. We can't make it without you." [01:44:44] (18 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
"for 128 years your hand has been on this church for 128 years you've allowed us to be a beacon of light in a cold and cruel and dark world so god i pray in the name of jesus that we go through these next 128 years and tell the world this light of mine i'm going to let it shine let it shine let it shine that wherever i go i'm going to let my light shine that somebody may not see greater centennial somebody may not see stephen pope but they'll see you jesus and they'll give you the glory and you the honor and you the praise" [01:48:08] (41 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
"Greater Centennial, I ask that you keep in your prayers all of those who are in a season of bereavement. We want to pray for those who are suffering and grieving the loss of a loved one. We ask that you pray for those on our sick list, our shut -in list, our prayer list, because what we do know is prayer changes things. And so we continue to lift each other up. We lift each other up in prayer." [01:56:47] (21 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
"Tomorrow, we are postponing our Corley Conference, our second Corley Conference. Look out for the new date for Corley Conference. Amen, Greater Centennial. Have your reports, but make sure you look out for the new dates. This Friday is our word in the bird. We're giving out to this community over 325 turkeys, I think it is, to this community with all the trimmings." [01:58:52] (24 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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